Two coves by sea, one great water day. I like how this trip strings together Yelapa’s car-free village and the protected, sea-only Majahuitas Cove without making the day feel like a checklist. I also love the energy on board, from music and landmark talk to a show and dancing on the way back. One thing to consider: the day can move fast, and conditions (like jellyfish or waterfall flow) can affect how dramatic the water time feels.

Expect a full 7 hours out of Puerto Vallarta on a catamaran, with active beach time, snorkeling and water gear in Majahuitas, plus a guided push in Yelapa that can include a walk to the Cola de Caballo waterfall. If you’re steady on your feet and okay with a packed schedule, this is a strong value. If you want long, slow downtime at just one place, you might feel a little rushed.

Key takeaways before you go

• Sea-only coves: Majahuitas is accessible only by boat, which helps keep it less crowded and more nature-focused.
• Snorkeling + gear included: You get snorkeling equipment and also options like kayaking and paddle-style water time with crew support.
• Yelapa is off the grid: No roads, village wandering, and the Cola de Caballo waterfall make it feel like a real place, not a resort set.
• The waterfall walk can be legit: Wear shoes you trust; some paths can be treacherous, and if it hasn’t rained, the waterfall may be smaller.
• Onboard entertainment is part of the deal: Open bar, music, dancing, and a fun show on the return ride back.

Pickup, fees, and how to avoid a stressful start

This is a Puerto Vallarta day trip that runs out by catamaran, and it’s set up with two pickup options at the Vallarta Adventures check-in points: Vallarta Adventures Nuevo Vallarta (Puerto Magico area) and Puerto Magico. You’ll need to redeem your reservation at the check-in desk before boarding.

Plan on extra costs beyond the $99 price. There’s a MXN$40 port fee, paid in cash before boarding. There’s also an access fee of USD $20 per person, paid in cash at check-in. Transportation from your hotel isn’t included, so if you’re not already near the pickup areas, you’ll want to sort that early.

If you’ve got even a bit of nerves about ports, show up early. One smooth trick: arrive before the peak morning rush. Port areas can feel like they’re designed by people who never met a calendar.

The catamaran cruise: the view, the wildlife odds, and the onboard vibe

After you leave, you’re on the water for about 1.5 hours on the catamaran, with sightseeing as the main “in-between” activity. If weather and timing line up, you might spot dolphins, and humpback whales are possible in winter. Even when animals don’t show up, the coastline ride is still part of the fun.

The crew tends to keep things moving so the time doesn’t feel like dead air. You’ll likely get landmark-style talk and lots of music as the day builds. One helpful detail: the early snacks are not usually a big breakfast buffet. Expect something more like coffee and juice, and then the day’s main food hits later.

Bring sun protection and plan to get a bit salty from the sea breeze. It’s a “sit, look, and enjoy the ride” portion of the day, not a long nap segment.

Yelapa: the car-free village, waterfall time, and real jungle-green scenery

Yelapa is where the tour slows down just enough to feel like a place you could wander without a script. After the initial cruise time, you’ll spend about 80 minutes on a guided visit in Yelapa.

What makes Yelapa special is the texture of the community. It’s a tiny village with no roads, so the vibe is all pedestrian paths, sea views, and small moments. You’ll stroll through the fishing village and then head toward the Cola de Caballo waterfalls.

The waterfall portion is the highlight, but it’s also the part that needs your respect. The walk can be rough underfoot, and some routes can feel treacherous. If you’ve got sensitive knees or low tolerance for uneven ground, this is where the trip may feel like work. Expect a mix of hiking steps and short stretches where you’re deciding where to place your feet.

Also, waterfall flow depends on conditions. If it hasn’t rained recently, you may get less dramatic water even if you still enjoy the spot. When you do reach the waterfall area, many people find it refreshing after sun and walking. Just note that the water can feel cold once you’re actually in it.

If you want the best Yelapa photos, keep your eyes open while you walk. The scenery between stops is often what you remember most, not just the main waterfall view.

Majahuitas Cove snorkeling and kayaking in a protected-feeling zone

Majahuitas is the sea-only payoff. You’ll cruise about 15 minutes to reach it, then settle into the water time.

Snorkeling is scheduled at about 25 minutes, with equipment handled by the crew. This is the part where you’re most likely to see fish and feel like you’re actually in the ocean, not just above it. The water can be warm—one guest described it around 80°F—so it’s not that freezing “why am I doing this” shock.

Majahuitas is also where kayaking and other water activities come into play. The general idea is: you’re in a protected cove, the crew helps you with gear, and you can do more than one type of water time (snorkel, plus paddle-style or kayaking options). If you prefer to choose your own balance—some snorkel, some lounge, some paddle—this portion supports that.

One important caution from real experience: jellyfish can show up. In one case, snorkelers reported stings and poor visibility. You can’t control the ocean, so treat this like any other marine day—protect your skin where you can, and if you notice jellyfish, follow crew guidance fast.

Lunch and free time at Majahuitas: what you do with the long stretch

After the snorkeling slot, you get a longer free-and-linger stretch—about 2.67 hours—at Majahuitas, plus lunch included in that general window.

Food is included as a deli-style lunch. In practice, it often reads like a sandwich-and-salad setup rather than a hot catered feast. That’s not a deal-breaker out here; it’s just good to know what you’re working with so you don’t expect a restaurant meal.

During the free time, you’ll choose your own rhythm:

• Snorkel again if conditions look good
• Paddle or kayak if you want more movement
• Float, swim, or just relax on the beach

This is also where you’ll likely want some cash. Small purchases pop up around beach and village areas, including souvenirs and easy snacks. If you don’t carry pesos, you may feel like you’re watching everyone else make quick buys.

If the day gets busy, stay calm. Majahuitas is gorgeous, but it can still be active depending on the number of boats out that day. Your best defense is simple: get to your spot early, then spend your energy in the water.

The return ride: open bar, music, dancing, and a real show

On the way back to Puerto Vallarta, the vibe shifts from water activities to party mode. You’ll be back on the catamaran for about 1.5 hours and the open bar is part of that.

This is when the crew really turns the volume up. Expect music, dancing, and an onboard performance/show. Names like Chi, Omar, Alejandro, Emberto, Chewey, and Chai show up in guest memories as standout crew members who keep people smiling and organized. Even if you’re not trying to be the center of attention, the energy is contagious.

Also, this is a good time to cool down. You’ve earned it. You can sip something, dry off a bit, and watch the coastline glide by again.

Price and value: is $99 really fair after extra fees?

At $99 per person, this tour lands in the “worth it if you use what’s included” category. Here’s why.

You’re getting:

• Two far-from-town sea stops (Yelapa and Majahuitas)
• Snorkeling equipment and access to water activities
• A lunch included
• An open bar
• A full day of crew-led entertainment and guided elements

The parts that cost extra if you were doing them separately are the water time access and the gear support. You’re also paying for the logistics of getting to coves only reachable by sea, plus the crew and boat time stitched into one outing.

That said, remember the cash fees: MXN$40 port fee and USD $20 access fee. Add those in when deciding. You’ll still likely feel like it’s good value if you actually plan to snorkel, hang on both beaches, and enjoy the return party.

If you’re the type who prefers quiet, long beach naps with zero schedule pressure, then a packed day like this may feel expensive even with inclusions. Match the tour to your travel style.

Who should book this Yelapa and Majahuitas boat day

This works best for you if you want:

• A day with mix-and-match water time (snorkel, paddle, kayak, beach)
• A real village stop in Yelapa plus a waterfall highlight
• A guided experience with clear activity blocks
• Fun onboard energy, not just a “we dropped you off and disappeared” tour

It may not be your best choice if:

• You need lots of downtime or slow pacing
• You’re not comfortable with uneven paths during the waterfall walk
• You have mobility concerns—this tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments

Families can work well here too, since younger guests can focus on water while older guests pick beach time. Just keep expectations realistic: the schedule moves.

Practical tips that make this day smoother

A few small things help a lot on a day like this:

• Bring towels if you can. One guest specifically called out that as useful.
• Wear water-friendly shoes for Yelapa’s waterfall walk. Flip-flops can work for some beach time, but not for every tricky step.
• Pack a photo-ready dry bag for your phone or camera. You’ll be on a boat and in and out of water.
• Carry cash in advance for the MXN$40 port fee and the USD $20 access fee, plus any little purchases.
• Bring sun protection and stay aware of jellyfish conditions in Majahuitas. If stinging or visibility issues happen, follow crew instructions immediately.

And one more small mindset shift: this is an active day. You’re touring a village, walking to a waterfall, and spending serious time by the sea. Plan for sore legs if you do the full waterfall experience.

Should you book this Yelapa Waterfall and Majahuitas snorkeling tour?

Yes, if you want a one-day sampler of what Puerto Vallarta’s coast can do beyond the resort strip. You’re paying for access to sea-only coves, included snorkeling gear, and the kind of crew energy that makes the boat ride feel like part of the memory—not just transportation.

Skip it only if you strongly prefer long, slow beach time, or if the idea of a potentially uneven waterfall walk makes you nervous. Also, if ocean conditions like jellyfish mean a lot to you, be flexible. Water days are weather-and-nature days.

If you go in prepared—with cash, sturdy shoes, and a “let’s roll” attitude—you’ll likely end the day with two very different coves checked off and one fun onboard show to close it out.

FAQ

How long is the tour?

The tour duration is 7 hours.

What’s included in the price?

The tour includes a deli-style lunch, an open bar on board, and snorkeling and kayaking equipment.

Are there extra fees besides the $99 price?

Yes. A MXN$40 port fee must be paid in cash before boarding, and there is a USD $20.00 access fee per person paid in cash at check-in.

Where is pickup?

Pickup is available at two Vallarta Adventures locations: Vallarta Adventures Nuevo Vallarta (Puerto Magico) and Puerto Magico.

Is transportation from my hotel included?

No, transportation from your hotel is not included.

What activities do I do in Yelapa?

You’ll have a guided visit in Yelapa (about 80 minutes), which includes time around the village and the Cola de Caballo waterfalls area.

What activities do I do in Majahuitas?

You’ll spend time at Playa Majahuitas for snorkeling (about 25 minutes) and then lunch plus free time there (about 2.67 hours), with equipment provided for snorkeling and kayaking.

Do I need a passport?

You need a passport or an ID card.

What languages are the guides?

The live tour guide is available in English and Spanish.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility impairments?

No, it is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.